Using words like summary for the end of this story seems off the mark. I have a hopeful outlook in writing this book after doing research and connecting the dots. Life can begin again at any stage in life, especially for those of us who are entering the golden years. Writing this story has given me energy, renewed confidence, and a much brighter look into the future. Finding peace of mind has been a huge benefit, but requires continued effort. I believe more now that when one reaches out for answers to big questions and becomes fully engaged in living in a proactive way, we find more peace of mind. My thinking has changed from thoughts of death and dying or old age to planning my next writing project, next adventure, and sharing more romance with Judy. It is never time to sit down and forget about it all. It is extremely healthy for the mind and body to be engaged, to discover, to learn, and to love. Living, learning and loving never ends until the day we actually leave this life for good and go on to the next life, assuming the faith that this is where we are headed.

“Retirement” means transitioning to new beginnings rather than stepping away from all the action. There is really more action in retirement if you are willing to take the leap of faith, and jump in and continue to make a difference in your life and the life of others. The more of my time spent giving to others feels like a gift. Continuing to share my life with soul-mate and wife Judy is comforting and exciting. Finding new friends and building new relationships is invigorating. Getting the most out of participating in the lives of friends and family, including watching my children grow along with the grandkids, is most gratifying. I can say life is as good as it can be as long as my feet stay firmly on the ground. Writing this book clearly represents a new beginning. I am very thankful for having the motivation to tackle this project and the many rewards it has and will produce in the future. I am ready for the next surprise and challenge life has in store for us!

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I didn’t know in 2011 how writing my first non-fiction memoir, Reconciliation: A Son’s Story, would change my life. It was at that moment in time that writing became a source of healing from childhood invisible wounds. Kathleen Casey-Kirschling, First Boomer, “You only have the moment. You can’t live in the past, and you don’t know what the future is going to bring.” These words really hit home for me at this time in my life as age 70 looms on July 6, 2016. Wow! This new decade for me was a scary beginning of the New Year until healthy change came into my life and our family. When it is time for change, it is up to all of us to take action…we own it! My major action was to clear away my agenda and all commitments that were no longer rewarding or fun. It was my time and the opportunity to make a difference for myself and to focus on my family, especially my loving wife, Judy. I set myself free to love more, explore and to innovate. It is a new day in the Sparks home! We are busy with new goals, planning, and excitement for the very special years ahead of us. I feel blessed and thankful for good health and new energy at age 69. “We 46ers ain’t done yet!”

Mental Health First Aid for Seniors

Reconciliation: A Son’s Story by Steve Sparks

A Gift To Every Reader
By John F Tyson on April 18, 2015 Format: Kindle Edition Writing is a solitary process that requires purging, especially when it comes to a memoir. Not many would have the courage to reveal the depth and toxicity of PTSD at such an intimate level, on a complete family. To me, this book is a wonderful gift and will bring comfort to those who continue the struggle. An inspiring quote, buried in the copy, says it all; "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass; It's about learning to dance in the rain". I highly recommend this book.

My Journey of Healing in Life After Trauma, Part 1, Kindle $2.99

What Parents, Teachers, and Mentors Must Know!

When Daddy Comes Home

Social Media Tools

Holden Village, A Memoir by Werner Janssen

I was taken by your quote at the end of chapter 1..."Miracles happen when freedom within nature and the human life are allowed to develop through relatively free interaction but without too much organizational interference." This is the magic sauce of innovation and entrepreneurship! Free wheeling brainstorming among kindred spirits! Steve Sparks

Beatles #1 Deluxe Limited Editon..very cool!

Adventures in Innovation by John F. Tyson

"Kindred Spirits!"
By Steve Sparks on April 21, 2015 Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase "Innovation and entrepreneurship" is the soul of a successful business enterprise. The Nortel story and legacy is both inspiring and sad. The "lessons learned" are well worth the price of admission... A must read for leaders, educators, and students everywhere!